Decision

To authorise Legal Services to register a charge against the title of xx Sycamore Road, Bersted, Bognor Regis, PO22 xxx in connection with a debt of £26,786.86 owed by xxx and xxx. The debt comprises £26,286.86 for major works and £500.00 in legal fees. The charge will remain in place for 10 years and be repaid in accordance with an agreed payment schedule.

Reasons for the decision

The leaseholders have requested to repay charges arising from major works over an extended period. Registering a legal charge against the property secures the council's interest and ensures the outstanding debt can be recovered in the event of sale of the property, death of the leaseholder or non-payment under the repayment agreement.

Alternative options considered

• Require full payment of the debt immediately.
• Decline the request for a repayment arrangement.
• Enter into an unsecured repayment agreement.

These options were rejected as they would either place undue financial pressure on the leaseholders or fail to adequately protect the council's financial interests.